Main menu

Organizers of Russian Grand Prix and circuit architects optimistic

December 27, 2012

If all goes as planned, Sebastian Vettel will be racing in Russia in 2014. Photo by LAT PHOTOGRAPHIC

Formula Sochi, the event promoter of the inaugural Formula 1 Russian Grand Prix in 2014, has released a joint statement with circuit architect Hermann Tilke to underline their confidence that the all-new facility will be ready in good time for the event.

The permanent race circuit is being constructed near Sochi, a Black Sea coastal city near the nation’s border with Georgia, which will stage next year’s Winter Olympics. Because the facility lies within the massive Olympics complex, some concern has arisen to the effect that it is not being prioritized by the contractors. But Alexander Bogdanov, the CEO of Formula Sochi, has countered.

"The construction of the racing track in Sochi is going into high gear. Our 5854-meter long circuit will be one of the longest in the Formula 1 World Championship. The autodrome will also host different racing series such as FIA World Endurance, World GT, World Touring Cars, FIA Formula 3, and Russian national championships. We are working through the possibility of hosting motorcycle racing of highest level: MotoGP, World Superbike, and others.

"More than 1000 engineering personnel and workers and 110 units of construction machinery are involved in the construction by OJSC 'Center of Omega', the developer of the Formula 1 Russian Grand Prix circuit. All the work is aimed at achieving the best quality of the future racing track. Control over construction is performed by the designing company, Tilke GmbH, and Russian experts.

"Summing up 2012 results, it is safe to say that the company Formula Sochi is getting into gear in the preparation of the Russian round of the Formula 1 World Championship, which includes the enhancing of working relations with the international promoter. Close coordination with the group of Formula One companies headed by Bernie Ecclestone gives us a confidence that the Russian Grand Prix will be organized on time and at a high level."

Was also optimistic.

"Together with Omega and Formula Sochi, we are deeply involved in the Russian Grand Prix project and we are glad that all works are going according to schedule, considering the large amount of coordination necessary with the Winter Olympics construction. There is no doubt that the circuit will be meeting all the requirements for Formula 1 and maybe also for MotoGP.

"The circuit is going to be very fast and technical, offering a number of interesting features. It will be a fantastic facility with a great atmosphere and it will be outstanding as the circuit will run through the Olympic Park. I am very optimistic about the future of the unique race track in Sochi and am looking forward to a triumphant start of Formula 1 in Russia."